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Technical guidance on the availability of TG4 in Northern Ireland after digital switchover - Update

18 April 2011

It is understood that the new multiplex for Northern Ireland intended to carry TV services TG4, RTÉ1 and RTÉ2 from selected transmitters in Northern Ireland will be a fully integrated part of the UK digital terrestrial TV system. The broadcasters intend to cross carry full electronic programme guide data for UK digital terrestrial TV. The multiplex will use the Digital TV Group "D book" specification DVB-T2 transmission mode 16 QAM, FEC rate ½ (DTG 164). This means that the services should be fully receivable with "Freeview HD" accredited models. It is unlikely to be receivable by TVs, recorders or set-top boxes not bearing the “Freeview HD” trade mark. Some households may require a new or additional rooftop aerial to receive the multiplex.
It is currently expected that the new multiplex will be broadcast from the Brougher Mountain, Black Mountain, and Carnmoney Hill transmitters.

Some households in Northern Ireland may be able to receive digital TV services direct from transmitters in the Republic of Ireland. Further information on the availability, coverage and reception of these TV services (both from the new UK multiplex and direct from transmitters in the Republic of Ireland) will be made available by broadcasters nearer the time of launch of the new multiplex, expected towards the end of 2012. Initial indications are that 80 to 90% of Northern Ireland homes would be covered for these TV services either by digital terrestrial TV transmitters in Northern Ireland or from transmitters in the Republic of Ireland network.